Flu Shot Update
Dec 11, 2009 Health Care, News
A list of clinics offering the H1N1 vaccine is available at the Minnesota Department of Health’s website. Minnesota should have received about 1 million doses of H1N1 vaccine. A link on that site allows you to find a location near your area code, or you can search for availability on a specific date. Simply click on the links under the “Find your flu shots” heading to use the tool.
Here are MDH responses to some of the common concerns:
MDH Testing
Health officials aren’t testing everyone with H1N1 symptoms. MDH indicates it is time-consuming and expensive to test everyone. In addition, most flu viruses now circulating are H1N1.
Vaccine Ingredients
Concerns have been raised about the presence of adjuvants and Thimerosol in H1N1 vaccines.
MDH reports there are no adjuvants in any of the flu vaccines. Some vaccines do have Thimerosol, but not FluMist or some single-dose vials. It is possible to ask for Thimerosol-free vaccine.
The CDC says the H1N1 vaccine is as safe as the seasonal flu vaccine because it is manufactured in exactly the same way. They only changed the virus strain, which is something they do every year when they make a new seasonal flu vaccine.
Immune Response Time
A good immune response develops within about 10 days of receiving the vaccination. However, children under 10 don’t develop a strong immunity with just one dose. They need a second vaccination within a month after the first one.
H1N1-Related Deaths in Minnesota
As of November 13, the Department of Health had confirmed 21 deaths related to the H1N1 strain and two additional flu-related deaths. Most victims had underlying conditions that contributed to their deaths. Those conditions ranged from asthma to obesity to weakened immune systems.
